Aleppo Zeep
Aleppo Zeep
Product Description
Product overview
A traditional handcrafted soap bar made from pure olive oil and 16% laurel berry oil, sun-dried for months using an ancient Aleppo recipe dating back over 3,000 years. This minimalist, 100% plant-based cleanser gently purifies face, body, and hair without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier.
Pure Olive Oil Base
Rich in vitamins A, D, E and K, the saponified olive oil gently cleanses while maintaining the skin's natural moisture barrier and promoting a supple, hydrated feel.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPure Olive Oil Base
Rich in vitamins A, D, E and K, the saponified olive oil gently cleanses while maintaining the skin's natural moisture barrier and promoting a supple, hydrated feel.
16% Laurel Berry Oil
Laurel oil provides natural antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe irritated skin, calm redness, and support healing of minor blemishes.
Ancient Artisan Recipe
Handcrafted using a traditional method dating back over 3,000 years from the city of Aleppo. Each bar is kettle-cooked and sun-dried for months to achieve its signature hardness.
Zero Waste & Eco-Friendly
100% biodegradable formula with no plastic packaging, no synthetic additives, and no preservatives. A sustainable choice that is gentle on the planet and your skin.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Only 4 natural ingredients make this one of the safest cleansers during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Free from ferments, fatty acid esters, and polysorbates. The saponified oils do not feed Malassezia yeast, making this soap safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
Saponified olive oil has a very low comedogenic potential. As a wash-off product, any residual oils are rinsed away, further reducing the risk of clogged pores.
Free from common allergens, fragrances, dyes, parabens, sulfates, and silicones. However, those with a known laurel/bay allergy should patch test first.
As a true soap, the pH is higher than the skin's natural pH of ~5.5. This can temporarily disrupt the acid mantle. Follow with a toner or moisturizer to rebalance.
Laurel berry oil contains natural fragrant compounds that may cause irritation in very sensitive individuals. Always perform a patch test on the inner wrist before first use.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSodium Olivate (Saponified Olive Oil) ~84%Proven
The primary ingredient, created by saponifying pure olive oil with sodium hydroxide. It forms the cleansing base of the soap while delivering the moisturizing benefits of olive oil's rich fatty acid profile including oleic acid, linoleic acid, and squalene.
- Cleansing: Effectively removes dirt, oil, and impurities through the saponification process without harsh synthetic surfactants.
- Moisturizing: Olive oil is rich in vitamin E and fatty acids that help maintain the skin's hydrolipidic film during cleansing.
- Antioxidant: Contains polyphenols and tocopherols that help protect the skin from oxidative stress and environmental damage.
Sodium Nobilate (Saponified Laurel Berry Oil) 16%Proven
Derived from the berries of the Laurus nobilis (bay laurel) tree, this is the ingredient that distinguishes Aleppo soap from regular olive oil soap. Laurel oil is rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and natural antiseptic compounds.
- Antibacterial: Natural antiseptic properties help control bacteria on the skin's surface, beneficial for acne-prone skin.
- Anti-inflammatory: Helps soothe irritated skin, reduce redness, and calm conditions like eczema and dermatitis.
- Antifungal: Traditional use supports its effectiveness against fungal skin conditions and dandruff when used as a shampoo.
Glycerin (naturally occurring) By-productProven
Glycerin is naturally produced during the saponification process and remains in the finished soap. It is one of the most effective humectants in skincare, drawing moisture to the skin.
- Humectant: A 2016 study found glycerin to be more effective as a humectant than AHAs and hyaluronic acid at attracting moisture to the skin.
- Barrier support: Helps strengthen the skin's natural moisture barrier, protecting against environmental irritants.
- Antimicrobial: Has demonstrated antimicrobial and antiviral properties, which is why it is commonly used in wound care.
Aqua (Water) SolventBase
Water serves as the solvent in the saponification process, helping to dissolve and combine the oils with sodium hydroxide. Most of the water evaporates during the extended sun-drying and curing period of 6-9 months.
- Process: Essential for the traditional kettle-cooking method used to create authentic Aleppo soap.
- Curing: The extended drying period allows water to evaporate, creating a dense, long-lasting bar that floats in water.
4 ingredients
Olea Europaea (Sodium Olivate), Laurus Nobilis Oil (Sodium Nobilate), Sodium Hydroxide, Aqua.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the first step in your routine, morning and/or evening. Follow with a toner to rebalance pH, then continue with your serums, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only). Can also replace your shampoo or shaving cream.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Face & Hands
Splash your face and hands with lukewarm water. Warm water helps the soap lather more easily and opens up the pores for a deeper cleanse.
Lather the Soap
Rub the bar between wet hands until a creamy lather forms. Aleppo soap produces a modest, fine lather — this is normal for a natural olive oil-based soap.
Massage Onto Skin
Gently massage the lather onto your face, body, or scalp using circular motions for 30-60 seconds. Avoid direct contact with the eyes.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with lukewarm water until all soap residue is removed. Pat skin dry with a clean towel — do not rub.
Store Properly
Place the bar on a well-draining soap dish to keep it dry between uses. This extends the life of the soap significantly and prevents it from becoming soft.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a 100% natural, chemical-free cleanser
- You have sensitive, dry, or easily irritated skin
- You suffer from eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis
- You prefer zero-waste, eco-friendly skincare products
- You want a multi-purpose soap for face, body, and hair
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe cleanser
- You prefer minimalist formulas with few ingredients
- You appreciate traditional, artisan-crafted products
Consider alternatives if:
- You prefer low-pH, acid-balanced cleansers (pH 5.5)
- You need a rich, foamy lather from your soap
- You dislike the natural earthy scent of olive and laurel oil
- You have a known allergy to laurel (bay) oil
- You prefer liquid or gel cleansers over bar soaps
- You want a soap that removes heavy or waterproof makeup
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe olive oil base is deeply moisturizing and won't strip natural oils. Laurel oil helps restore the hydrolipidic film, leaving skin soft and nourished.
Free from fragrances, preservatives, and harsh surfactants. The alkaline pH may need a toner follow-up. Patch test recommended for laurel oil sensitivity.
Cleanses effectively without over-drying. The laurel oil helps regulate excess sebum. For very oily skin, a variant with higher laurel oil (40%) may work better.
The 16% laurel oil formula strikes an ideal balance — it purifies oily zones without drying out drier areas, making it perfect for combination skin.
Antibacterial laurel oil helps fight acne-causing bacteria. Low comedogenic rating. However, some users report initial purging — give it 2-3 weeks.
Frequently recommended by dermatologists for skin conditions. The anti-inflammatory and soothing properties of laurel oil help calm irritation and itching.
Results timeline
MONTH 2-3Initial Cleansing & Adjustment
Skin feels clean and soft immediately after first use. You may notice a slight tightness as your skin adjusts to the natural soap's alkaline pH. The earthy laurel scent becomes familiar.
90% noticed softer skinSkin Balancing & Hydration
Skin begins to rebalance its natural oil production. Some users may experience a brief purging phase as impurities surface. Dryness and flakiness begin to diminish as the olive oil nourishes the skin barrier.
75% noticed improved hydrationVisible Calming & Clarity
Redness and irritation noticeably reduced. Eczema and psoriasis sufferers often report significant improvement. Skin appears more even-toned and feels more resilient. Acne breakouts start to decrease.
70% noticed calmer skinLong-Term Improvement
Consistent use reveals healthier, more radiant skin with a balanced moisture level. Many users report they no longer need additional moisturizer. Scalp conditions like dandruff show marked improvement when used as shampoo.
80% reported overall improvementRatings by platform
3K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Incredibly pure — only 4 natural ingredients, no chemicals
- Excellent for eczema, psoriasis, and sensitive skin conditions
- Multi-purpose: face, body, hair, and even shaving
- One bar lasts 2-3 months with daily use — very economical
- 100% biodegradable and zero-waste packaging
- Leaves skin feeling soft, clean, and moisturized
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Traditional craftsmanship and heritage product
Criticized
- Earthy scent is not for everyone — no added fragrance
- Minimal lather compared to synthetic soaps
- Alkaline pH (~9-10) may not suit all skin types
- Bar can become soft if not stored on a draining dish
- Bulky bar shape can be awkward to handle at first
- Initial purging phase possible for some users
- Brown exterior can look unappealing (cosmetic only)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESAlso available at Holland & Barrett. Pure olive oil-based Aleppo soap without laurel oil. Even gentler formula, slightly larger bar. Lacks the antibacterial properties of laurel oil but ideal for ultra-sensitive skin.
Very similar formula with slightly less laurel oil (12% vs 16%). Larger 200g bar makes it better value per gram. Same traditional production method and minimal ingredient list.
Certified organic olive oil soap with coconut and hemp seed oils added. More lathering than Aleppo soap but contains more ingredients. No laurel oil, so it lacks the specific antibacterial and soothing benefits.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEDe Tuinen Aleppo Zeep 16%
Najel Aleppo Soap 12% HBL
Dr. Bronner's Castile Bar
Storage & shelf life
STORAGE36+ months after opening. Aleppo soap has an exceptionally long shelf life due to its natural composition and lack of water-based ingredients in the cured bar. It can last for years stored properly.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Always use a well-draining soap dish to let the bar dry between uses. Avoid leaving in standing water.
Unwrapped bar or minimal cardboard wrapper. Zero plastic packaging — completely eco-friendly and recyclable.
Yes — solid bar soap is TSA/airport compliant with no liquid restrictions. Compact 150g bar fits easily in any toiletry bag. Use a soap travel case for best results.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, Aleppo Zeep is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains only 4 natural ingredients — saponified olive oil, saponified laurel oil, sodium hydroxide (fully reacted during saponification), and water. There are no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or any other ingredients flagged as unsafe during pregnancy. Its pure, minimalist formula makes it one of the safest cleansing options available for expectant and nursing mothers.
Yes, Aleppo Zeep is fungal acne safe. It does not contain any fermented ingredients, fatty acid esters, polysorbates, or other compounds known to feed the Malassezia yeast that causes fungal acne. The saponified oils in the formula have been chemically transformed during the soap-making process and do not feed the yeast. This has been confirmed by ingredient analysis sites like SkinSort.
Yes, you can use Aleppo Zeep as a cleanser alongside active ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. Since it is a wash-off product, it does not interfere with these actives. However, because Aleppo soap has an alkaline pH (~9-10), it is advisable to use a pH-balancing toner after cleansing and before applying acid-based treatments. This will help restore your skin's natural acid mantle and optimize the effectiveness of your actives.
Aleppo Zeep is versatile and works for most skin types. It is particularly excellent for dry, sensitive, and eczema/psoriasis-prone skin due to its gentle olive oil base and soothing laurel oil. Combination skin also benefits well from the 16% laurel oil variant. For oily and acne-prone skin, the 40% laurel oil variant may be more effective. Those with very reactive skin should start with the 100% olive oil variant and work up.
Most users notice softer, cleaner-feeling skin from the very first use. Meaningful improvements in skin conditions like eczema, dryness, and irritation typically become visible within 2-4 weeks of consistent daily use. Acne-prone skin may experience a brief purging phase in the first 1-2 weeks before improvement. For best long-term results, use consistently for at least 4-8 weeks.
Aleppo Zeep is a cleanser, so it goes first in your skincare routine. Use it morning and/or evening to wash your face and body. After cleansing, follow with a pH-balancing toner, then apply your serums, moisturizer, and sunscreen (morning only). It can also be used as a shampoo bar or natural shaving soap, replacing multiple products in your bathroom.
Aleppo Zeep has a low comedogenic rating of approximately 1 out of 5. While olive oil as a raw ingredient has a moderate comedogenic rating (2-3), the saponification process transforms the oil into soap, significantly reducing its pore-clogging potential. Additionally, as a wash-off product, the soap is rinsed away rather than left on the skin, further minimizing any risk of clogged pores.
Aleppo Zeep has an exceptionally long shelf life — it can last 3+ years stored properly, even after opening. Unlike liquid products, the cured bar soap does not expire in the traditional sense. Over time, it may lose some of its fragrance and the outer layer may darken further, but this does not affect its cleansing properties. Store on a draining soap dish in a dry area for maximum longevity. A single 150g bar typically lasts 2-3 months with daily face and body use.
Verdict: De Tuinen Aleppo Zeep is a beautifully simple, time-tested cleanser that delivers on its promise of pure, natural skincare. With only 4 ingredients and a 3,000-year heritage, it offers exceptional value for sensitive, dry, and problem-prone skin. The 16% laurel oil variant strikes the perfect balance between gentleness and therapeutic benefit. While the alkaline pH and earthy scent won't suit every preference, for those seeking a minimalist, eco-friendly cleanser that is pregnancy safe, fungal acne safe, and effective for conditions like eczema — this is hard to beat. An outstanding all-in-one soap for face, body, and hair at a fraction of the cost of modern alternatives.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Sodium Olivate
Cleansing, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|